Rotherham Council tenants face 4.8 per cent rent rise
Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council has proposed a 4.8 per cent increase for rents in council properties next year as part of a long-term plan to improve its housing stock and continue building new homes.
The proposals, set to be discussed by cabinet this month, would see weekly social rents rise by 4.8 per cent from April 2026, with the possibility of an additional £2 a week if the Government allows councils to move rents closer to national “formula rent” levels. If approved in full, the average weekly rent would increase by around £6 to just over £101. A final decision from Government on rent convergence is expected in January.
The rent rise forms part of the council’s housing revenue account business plan, which outlines spending over 30 years and is funded entirely from rental income. The report says Rotherham needs to invest around £1.3bn in its homes over the plan period to keep them safe, modern and energy efficient.
This includes major upgrades such as new roofs, boilers, kitchens and bathrooms, as well as work to tackle damp and mould. The council also intends to bring all homes up to Energy Performance Certificate Band C by 2030.
Alongside this, the council is continuing its housebuilding programme, with 1,000 new homes due by summer 2027 and a further 500 planned by 2037. Officers say extra rental income is needed to support this growth while meeting new national regulations on building safety and repairs.
Around three-quarters of tenants receive Housing Benefit or Universal Credit, meaning many would not feel the increase directly as their entitlement would rise in line with rent. Around 4,500 tenants who pay their rent in full would see the change themselves. The council says it will continue offering support for residents facing financial pressure.
Other charges would also increase, including a 4.8 per cent rise for affordable rent homes and a 10 per cent rise in garage rents. District heating charges, however, would be frozen, with average bills expected to remain below the national gas price cap.
The proposals will go before cabinet on 15 December, ahead of a final decision by full council in January. New charges would take effect in April 2026.